How does Kailash Via Lasha's journey commence?

The mesmerizing Kailash Tour via Lasha commences from the beautiful city of Kathmandu after an exploration of the cultural and historical sites of Nepal. Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour offers a lot of places to explore. Later on, with a scenic flight, the journeys take you from Kathmandu to the most awaited destination Lasha. The flight glides along the eastern Himalayas of Nepal and then traverses it to the Tibetan plateau dotted with turquoise lakes. As you land on the Lasha – Tibet, feel the spiritual vibes of unique monuments and palaces alongside the backdrop of glimmering Himalayas.

Spend your days sightseeing around Lasha City including visits to Potala Palace, Sera Monastery, Norbulingka Palace, Jokhang Temple, Tibetan traditional Barkhor Squire and many others which will provide you with a profound understanding of the Tibetan cultures, lifestyle, spirituality, architecture and history preserved by old centuries. After a great exploration and creating memories, the tour heads to Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.  

Enjoy a scenic drive through the plateaus at the top of the world overlooking the snowcapped mountains. The extensive landscape, coloured with soaring Himalayas mountains and tranquil turquoise lakes, boasts some of the world's highest drivable passes. As you drive through, traverse through charming villages and vast open pastures where wild yaks, Tibetan wild asses, and blue sheep graze against the grandiose backdrop of the Himalayas.

Stop at a noteworthy location Yamdrok Lake along the route, and enjoy the serenity of the fascinating Lake surrounded by the glorious Himalayas. Cross the Karo La Pass before arriving at Gyantse and Shigatse, there you’ll be exploring the beautiful Tashilunpo monastery. Then drive to Lake Masarovar via Saga. Delve into the fresh water and cleanse your sin away with pristine water and do puja, Havan and rituals later, get ready for exhilarating Kailash kora around the sacred Mountain Kailash – the abode of God Shiva, the ultimate Tirtha Yatra for millions of pilgrims and devotees for grasping new meanings in life.

From Darchen, the Kailash Parikrama begins and challenges you to cross the high Dolma La Pass and offers the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kailash – the sacred destination. Explore Zuthulphuk monastery during kora. After completing make your way back to Darchen retracing the same route to Kathmandu, Nepal. Where the journey concludes.

Outline Itinerary of Kailash Yatra Via Lasha

Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Day 3: Kathmandu - Lhasa

Day 4: Lhasa Sightseeing

Day 5: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse

Day 6: Shigaste – Saga

Day 7: Saga - Paryang – Manasarovar

Day 8: Exploration of Lake Manasarovar drive to Darchen

Day 9: Darchen to Deraphuk(Kailash Parikrama)

Day 10: Deraphuk to Zuthulpuk (Kailash Parikrama)

Day 11: Zuthulpuk to Darchen(Kailash Parikrama) and Drive to Saga

Day 12: Drive back to Shigatse. Overnight at Hotel

Day 13: Drive to Lhasa. Overnight at Hotel

Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel

Significance of Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a holy pilgrimage site in the world – known to be the abode of God Shiva and Goddess Parvati that holds boundless cultural and spiritual importance for different religions: Hindus, Buddhists, Jainism. For those religions, Mount Kailash is the spiritual epicentre. Many pilgrims make their way to Mt. Kailash to immerse in the untouched beauty while some of them visit to find solace in the enigmatic and transcendent energy of the sacred Mount Kailash as well as spiritual purification.

For Hinduism, Mount Kailash is revered as the worldly epitome of Mount Meru, the spiritual centre of the universe. According to Hindu mythology, Swarga or heaven is believed to dwell here, and pilgrims who visit this holy site are cleansed of their sins. Stopover Mansarovar Lake is another main destination of this pilgrimage tour, where taking a ritual bath guarantees one of relaying the haven of Lord Brahma, and drinking its sacred waters purifies sins accumulated over a hundred lifetimes. The pilgrimage to Mount Kailash involves circumambulating the holy Kailash Mountain exploring Mansarovar Lake engaging in ritual ceremonies.

For Buddhism, Mount Kailash is referred to as Kang Rinpoche or “Precious Jewel Mountain” and it is believed to be the abode of Demchok, a meaningful deity in Tibetan Buddhism.

For Jainism, Kailash Mansarovar holds deep significance as it is believed to be where Rishabha Deva – the first Tirthankara (Spiritual teacher) achieved Liberation.

According to Bon Religion, it is believed that Kailash Parvat is the spiritual seat of power. However, each religion has its significance to Holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

Additionally, drinking and bathing in Lake Mansarovar, and a parikrama of Kailash Parvat tend to bring good fortune to the worshippers who believe in every religion.  

Major attractions in Lhasa

Lhasa is the capital city of ancient land Tibet – home to several ancient monasteries and pilgrimage sites. Lhasa city also known as the “city of sunshine” and “the land of gods” lets you immerse into its distinctive cultural and spiritual sites mainly Buddhist culture.  Unveil varied cultural antique and historical sites in Lhasa which holds profound religious significance. Get more insights about the best place to visit in Tibet.

Potala Palace

Listed as the top attractions to visit in Tibet, Potala Palace soaring over the sacred city, sends shivers down the spine, while the quaint whitewashed old Tibetan quarter beautifully preserves the heart and soul of traditional Tibetan existence. Being the magnificent palace globally, this complex offers a stunning vista of Lhasa, coupled with a breathtaking panoramic scenery of the surrounding mountains. Never miss out on the chance to captivate several thousand antique artefacts including sculptures, paintings, mandalas, stupas, and others.

Norbulingka

Norbulingka popularly known as "Treasure Garden." or Treasure Park" served as the traditional summer abode of the Dalai Lama and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the unique complex from other different monasteries settled in a large park with many trees and flowers, and a lake. Its impeccably maintained murals, graceful mandalas, and breathtaking paintings are must-see attractions.

Barkhor Street

One of the best places to visit in Tibet is undoubtedly Barkhor Street - the main centre for the local economy, religion and art. Because of its sterling allure, this street stands as one of the most popular public spaces in Tibet. Interact with many locals and gain insights about Buddhist life as well as enjoy the walk-in bustling markets and buy some souvenirs for memories.

Jokhang Temple

Revered as the most important pilgrimage site of Tibet,Jokhang Temple has attracted many pilgrims to worship and circle. Since its establishment in the 7th century under the patronage of King Songtsen Gampo, this admired haven has been an adored rampart of Tibetan Buddhism. Revered as the spiritual core of Tibet, it attracts with its ancient rituals, charming architecture, and elegant artwork.

Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery, nestled in the heart of Lhasa, exemplify the core of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in the early 15th century, this esteemed institution has been a flare of spiritual enlightenment and scholarly pursuit for centuries. Its peaceful yards and ornate halls have witness to the teachings of countless outstanding Gelug monks, shaping the course of Tibetan religious and intellectual history.

Samye Monastery

Built in the 8th Century by King Trisong Detsen, holds the significant position of being the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, Samye Monastery is must must-visit destination which provides complete insights into rich history dating back. Explore a Samya Monastery which is in the shape of a Mandala representing a Buddhist Universe and a central temple representing Mount Meru and surrounding buildings represent continents and subcontinents.

Ganden Monastery

Stands magnificently on Wangbori Mountain, Ganden Monastery, built by Je Tsongkhapa in 1409, the first shrine of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism holds values as one of the Great Three Holy Monasteries of Lhasa, nearby Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery. Explore the complex artistry of Tibetan handicraft and art of the age-old tradition. Enjoy the spirited Ganden Thangka divulging Festival, where a gigantic Buddha Thangka beautifies the hillside, a sight to capture.

Mansarovar Lake and Kailash Kora Via Lhasa, the capital of Tibet

The challenging journey to Mansarovar Lake and Kailash Kora takes you via Lhasa- the capital city of Tibet and the most stunning landscape in the world sets remarks for the rest of your life. One of the enthralling journeys that excites you with every step you take.

Begin the trip from Lhasa, a well-known city immersed in history and culture, and also home to some of the most major Buddhist monasteries in the world. After exploring a few days Lhasa city, make your voyage to Lake Manasarovar. Passing through the stunning Tibetan countryside, high mountain passes, luxuriant valleys, and expanded grasslands. Also, witnessed some of the most remote and quaint villages. Be amazed at the awe-inspiring view of pristine Lake Mansarovar, take a dip into the freshwater to wash away your sins and provide good fortune in the coming days.

Next, the challenging and thrilling journey begins with a lot of exhilaration. The trail is quite strenuous but it is a mesmerizingly gratifying one. Mount Kailash Kora takes you through the most stupefying landscape in the world. Three days circumambulating around Kailash Parvat is truly once in a lifetime experience that sets in your heart, mind and soul. During the Kailash Parikrama, you will encounter all four faces of Mount Kailash, starting with the South Face, depending on the direction of your circuit. Most pilgrims commence in a clockwise direction, chanting mantras and bowing in reverence to Kailash. Moreover, the incredible scenery and deep spiritual aura are unimaginable. Once you finish the Kailash Kora, your journey will end and lead back to Lake Manasarovar before heading to Lhasa.

If you are an adventure seeker and want to challenge yourself with ultimate high-altitude passes then Mansarovar Lake and Kailash Kora Via Lhasa Tour is the best option to embark on. It's an exploration that pushes you to your physical and mental limits, yet it's also an odyssey that impresses a profound sense of serenity and calm.

Planning and Preparing for the Kailash via Lasha Tour

Planning and Preparing for a holy yatra to Kailash are the most essential things to be considered before embarking on a trek. As the trek is in high-altitude terrain, it requires careful planning with your group. If you are well known about the journey then it will be smoother and convenient to achieve the desired goal. So, for the first step, travellers need to obtain crucial permits and visas for the Tibet Tour. The Chinese government regulates entry into Tibet, and all visitors must require a Tibet Travel Permit to enter the region. This permit can only be acquired through a registered travel agency. Eternal Himalaya will arrange all the necessary procedures, including securing approval from the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

The next step, for a safe and enjoyable trip to Kailash Mansarovar, a packing list is most essential to prepare before heading on the journey. In high altitude region trek, the weather will be unpredictable and the trail conditions might be difficult. So, packing essential trekking gear and equipment would be best to trek trouble freely, safely and comfortably which helps to enhance the overall Kailash Tour experience. Most importantly warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, and trekking poles should be on the list. Travellers can rent essential items in Nepal.

Advice for a Safety and Fulfilling Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

• Before embarking on a Kailash Tour consult with your doctor for your safety.
• Engage in some necessary exercises before a couple of months of planning the tour.
• Pack essential clothing items and gear for the Kailash Kora according to season.
• Add some acclimatization day to adjust to high altitude.
• Book your tour with a reliable local travel agency which will ensure you the trouble-free and comfortable journey.
• Respect the cultures, traditions and customs of locals.
• Be cautious about altitude sickness symptoms
• Listen to your body and take some break along the trail.
• Be well prepared for any Health-Related Issues and bring your medications.

Permits Required for Kailash via Lasha

Kailash via Lasha Tour needs varied types of permits to enter China (Tibet). It is important to obtain for the Kailash Yatra. If you’re booking with any travel agency then they will organize it. Here’s a list of permits the visitors require;

• Tibet Travel Permit
• Alien’s Travel Permit
• Military Permit
• Foreign Affairs Permit
• Inner Line Permit

Documents Required for Kailash Travel Permits

To successfully acquire the required travel permits for the Mount Kailash Yatra, you must provide the following documents:

• Passport – An original passport valid for up to six months
• Passport-size photo – Carry a passport-size photo of at least six.
• Chinese Visa – It is essential as you are travelling to a Landmark of China (Tibet).
• Tour Itinerary – Need to give the itinerary you’re planning for the trip so that, we will make sure to connect the same route and destination wishing for.
• Group Visa – A group you’re planning to tour Tibet, requires a group visa application.
• Other Documents - You might also need to give additional documents, like a travel insurance policy or a health certificate, based on your tour itinerary.

How difficult is Kailash Yatra via Lasha?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the challenging tours because of high altitudes and thin air where the oxygen level will be too low. In this condition, there would be a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Kailash's journey requires careful planning and, a basic to a high level of physical and mental fitness while circumambulation around Mt. Kailash and LakeMansarovar.

Three days of Kora is extremely strenuous otherwise, the tours normally take you on a drive. Generally, the tour takes you up to the elevation of 5600 meters so prepare yourself carefully.

During the Yatra, pilgrims must traverse high-altitude areas under challenging conditions. The steep slopes and long daily distances between camps make the Kailash tour quite demanding. However, if you have prior hiking experience at high altitudes it would be beneficial and make it easier to ascend and descend. Before embarking on the Kailash trip, engage in regular exercise, yoga, and hiking which helps to increase stamina and endurance power, you should find the journey manageable.

Physical and Mental Preparation for the Kailash Via Lasha Tour

Commence on a spiritual journey like none other, as you’ll delve into the mystical realm of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This sacred pilgrimage tour to the abode of Lord Shiva is not just a physical expedition but a soul-stirring voyage that tests your endurance and faith. Get to know about how to be prepared physically and mentally for an amazing adventure of a lifetime!

Physical Preparation

Physical fitness is crucial for this kind of adventure which involves challenging terrain and high altitudes mountain passes. If you have prior experience of trekking, it would be beneficial to conquer. No prior experience but still want to challenge yourself then we would like to suggest some cardiovascular exercises for physical fitness such as hiking, running, and cycling help to build stamina and endurance. Focus on strength training such as squats and lunges for legs, core and back muscles, making it easier to walk with heavy backpacks. Physical fitness is essential for fully experiencing a spiritual pilgrimage without being impeded by physical limitations. Such activities like hiking, yoga, and cardio workouts are great ways to prepare your body for the challenging journey.

Mental Preparation

Embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a physical journey; it’s also a profoundly spiritual and mentally enlightening experience. To prepare yourself mentally for this pilgrimage, take time to reflect on the deep significance of visiting this sacred site.

Without proper mental preparedness, trekkers can swiftly feel stress and hesitancy during the journey. To avoid such a mentality, it's crucial to be fully prepared for even the extremely worst conditions.

Engage in some mental exercises like yoga, meditation, dancing, reading hiking to boost physical fitness and mental resilience. Such exercises surely help your mental peace and push you to your limits.

The best time to do the Kailash Tour Via Lasha

It is great to plan your trip at the right time because the landscape and the scenery will be amazing during that time, making the journey memorable. For a better experience, make sure to embark on the best time which is spring to early summer and mid-autumn. The months of April, May, June, and mid-September to early October. During these months of the year, there is probability of no rainfall and heavy snowfall. Hence, travelling becomes more easy, more enjoyable and more convenient throughout the trail. Without any hurdles of weather conditions, the Kailash Parikrama and Mansarovar rituals can be performed trouble-free and enhance the overall spiritual experience.

During this time, the weather remains stable with moderate temperatures which provides the stunning vista of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar with surrounding sights. Nature becomes more colorful adorned with blooming flowers along the trail. The lakes you visit appear more expansive and clearer. You can witness cattle actively grazing, and the wildlife is much more congenial. Enjoy a walk-in sunny day however, the nights are delightfully fresh.

July and August are the peak months for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Full moon days of these months are considered the best time for Kailash Kora. At the time, it is believed to have washed away all the sins of the past hundred lives. But the weather is not favourable all the time with powerful spiritual beliefs, pilgrims make their visit during this time. During January and February, the weather will be cold but offers clear skies and a great vista of snow-covered Mountain Kailash. Due to these conditions, pilgrim houses and tea rooms near Mount Kailash close from late October until April. But if you can handle the cold weather conditions, then this time will be the ideal time for a great trekking and travel experience. With proper gear and warm clothes, the trip can be arranged by Eternal Himalaya.

Additionally, be aware that snow can be encountered on the Dolma-La Pass at any time of the year.

Accommodations and Food During the Mount Kailash Tour Via Lasha

Most travellers are wondering about the food and accommodations during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route. No need to worry about its Eternal Himalaya Team has been arranging tours to Mt. Kailash ensuring a comfortable accommodation and nourishing food experience for travellers. From Kathmandu to Tibet, the services will be arranged according to our travellers’ preferences and tastes which provide the utmost comfort and a healthy diet for sure.

Travelers will be accommodated in a 4-star hotel in Kathmandu offering a comfortable and pleasant bedroom with private bathrooms to spend overnight. Take adequate rest on cosy beds before embarking on a thrilling adventure of the Mt. Kailash Tour. During the route to Kailash, you’ll be accommodated in a guesthouse/teahouse which provides basic amenities including comfortable beds, a group sharing room, basic furniture items and shared bathrooms. All these services are included in the Kailash Mansarovar Tour Cost. If you seek a more luxurious and comfortable stay, an upgrade option is available in Darchen for an extra cost. The amenities will be luxurious and a higher standard of guesthouse accommodation, adding a touch of luxury to your journey. During the Kailash Kora, you will likely stay in the dormitory-style Monastery guesthouse or the camps set by our crew members on the ground available by the monasteries.

Kailash Lasha Yatra offers vegetarian meals catering to the dietary preferences of travellers. Three meals a day will be served such as Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Our dedicated cooking team will handle all meal preparations for the group, offering you a delightful array of Indian-style vegetarian dishes throughout your journey. This culinary experience lets you enjoy familiar flavours while delving into the unique cultural and natural beauty of Tibet. During the challenging Kailash Parikrama, where you will circumambulate Mount Kailash, we provide convenient, energy-packed lunches to ensure you stay nourished during the trek.

Distance from Lhasa to Mount Kailash

Mt. Kailash situated in the far west of Tibet is approximately 1800km away. It may vary depending on the Kailash Lhasa route travellers choose. Generally, the Kailash Tour requires 2 weeks as a minimum time frame to conquer. It depends upon the routes, road conditions and weather conditions how much duration will it take? There are different routes such as the Kailash Overland Tour, Kailash Mansarovar Tour, Kailash via Nepalgunj, Kailash Via Lucknow, Kailash Helicopter Tourand Kailash via Lasha itself. So, there is no actual prediction about the duration and distance of Kailash Mansarovar's Trip.

The driving distance covered from Lhasa to Mount Kailash is approximately 1,600 km through the southern route and 1,832 km through the northern route. Beginning from Lhasa, the southern route to Mount Kailash travels west alongside the G318 National Highway to the city of Shigatse. From there, it is southwest to the Everest Base Camp. The remaining journey is a northwest trip, passing through Saga on the way to Darchen, the small town at the foot of Mount Kailash, the shortest and the most popular route to Mount Kailash from Lhasa. The northern route from Lhasa to Mount Kailash starts with a sway to the northwest. continues the route northwest through Baingoin to Nyima before turning southwest to continue through Coqen to Zhongba. The final leg is northwest to Darchen at the foot of Mount Kailash.

Travel insurance for the Kailash via Lasha Tour

Kailash Mansarovar Lake Tour via Lasha is full of adventurous tours in a drive and en route, the journey becomes more exciting and a bit challenging. With these thrilling adventures and challenges come probable risk factors such as altitude sickness, other unexpected events, unfavourable weather conditions, etc.

The risks involved during trekking are unforeseen, so it’s better to have travel insurance ready before booking the tour. All the visitors are required to provide a copy of their complete travel insurance policy to Eternal Himalaya. The policy of travel insurance must cover emergency medical and medical repatriation - including helicopter rescue and evacuation expenses at high altitudes (up to 6,000m). Eternal Himalaya does not sell insurance policies. However, we can commend insurance companies to assist you based on your experiences.

Travellers must send detailed insurance information after booking Kailash via the Lasha Package. In emergencies, Eternal Himalaya will use your insurance for helicopter rescue from high elevation. Ensure that your travel insurance policy covers mountain rescue costs. Before purchasing, confirm with insurance companies for helicopter rescue up to 6000m, avoiding dependence solely on website information.

People also asked:

Who will be my guides for the Kailash tour?

Professional experienced Nepali and Tibetan Guide will travel and assist throughout the journey. Tibetan guides arrange all the documents for visa processing, speak the local Tibetan language and make sure to hire the yak or horse for Kailash Kora. And the Nepali guides ensure all the logistics, health and safety, food and comfort for the pilgrims.

What is the cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa?

 Kailash Mansarovar tour is generally on a group basis where most of the operator offers it in a group. The tour normally includes transportation, accommodation, meals, permits, and a guide charge. In a group tour, the cost starts from $2,500 to $5,000 per person, based on the operator and the level of comfort wished for. Moreover, various factors will affect the price of a Kailash Mansarovar trip, namely the route you travel, the number of people in a group, the travelling season, the means of transportation, the standard of hotel and dining, and other aspects.

What is the most popular route to Kailash Mansarovar?

Kailash Mansarovar Can be done by following different routes. But among them, Kailash via Lasha and Kailash via Kerung/ Kailash overland tour is the most popular route to set foot near Mount Kailash.

What kind of toilet facilities are available during the Kailash trip?

In some places like Darchen, they offer rooms with attached toilets. Most hotels and guesthouses still have common Asian squats while some places do have western-style toilets. A little problem is in Mansarovar, Dirapuk and Zutulpuk where toilets have to be managed as portable toilets unless your services are in standard hotels where toilet facilities have now considerably changed for being better. During the Kora or circumambulation of Mt. Kailash however, there are no toilet facilities and one has to use open-air toilets with dug-pit loos.

Is drinking water available during the Kailash Yatra?

Yes, drinking water is available during the Kailash Yatra, but it is important to be prepared for your safety. Bringing water purification tablets, a portable water filter, or a UV purifier can ensure that any water source along the way is safe to drink. But Eternal Himalaya will provide boiled or purified water at regular intervals.

Is there electricity and internet availability during Kailash Kora?

Electricity will be available throughout the journey but the Internet is not available in Kailash Kora. So be prepared before starting the trip to Tibet. You can buy a local SIM card that will access data everywhere.

Conclusion

A journey to Kailash via Lhasa is not just a physical odyssey but a spiritual voyage, wandering through the ancient realms of faith, culture, and natural beauty. As one concludes this pilgrimage, it's not solely the memories of stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas that one encounters, but also the profound sense of self-analysis and link to something greater than oneself.

This meaningful journey leaves an indelible mark on the soul, reminding us of the enduring power of pilgrimage to transform hearts and minds. Whether it's the magnificent peaks of Mount Kailash or the peaceful monasteries of Lhasa, the experience is a testament to the human spirit's everlasting quest for meaning and superiority.

In conclusion, the Kailash tour via Lhasa offers not just a physical adventure but a spiritual arouses, leaving travellers enriched, enlightened, and forever changed.